First Impressions of Mec-Gar USA Inc 1911 7 Rounds Officer Magazine
The Mec-Gar USA Inc 1911 7 Rounds Officer Magazine promises reliability and durability for compact 1911 platforms. Mec-Gar is a well-respected name in the magazine industry, known for producing high-quality magazines for various firearms. This particular magazine caught my eye because I needed a dependable option for my Colt Officer’s ACP, which I often carry concealed.
My primary concern with aftermarket 1911 magazines has always been consistent feeding and longevity. Some cheaper options fail to lock the slide back after the last round or exhibit premature wear. I’ve been burned before by unreliable magazines that cause jams and frustration at the range.
Upon receiving the Mec-Gar USA Inc 1911 7 Rounds Officer Magazine, I was immediately impressed with its solid feel. The steel construction felt robust, and the finish was clean and even. Compared to some generic magazines I’ve used in the past, this one felt significantly more substantial and well-made.
I was considering a couple of other options, including a Wilson Combat magazine and a Chip McCormick Power Mag. Ultimately, I chose the Mec-Gar due to its reputation for reliability and its more reasonable price point. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism; I was excited to put it through its paces.
Real-World Testing: Putting Mec-Gar USA Inc 1911 7 Rounds Officer Magazine to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Mec-Gar USA Inc 1911 7 Rounds Officer Magazine was at my local shooting range. I ran about 100 rounds of .45 ACP through it, using a mix of FMJ and hollow-point ammunition. The magazine performed flawlessly, feeding each round smoothly and consistently.
I experienced no malfunctions whatsoever during that first range session. The magazine locked the slide back reliably after the last round every time. I even tried rapid-firing a few magazines to see if I could induce any feeding issues, but the Mec-Gar performed admirably.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Mec-Gar USA Inc 1911 7 Rounds Officer Magazine continues to perform reliably. I’ve put several hundred more rounds through it, and it still functions like new. There are no signs of significant wear and tear.
The steel body has held up well, and the spring tension remains strong. Cleaning is straightforward; I simply disassemble the magazine and wipe down the components with a CLP. I previously used some no-name magazines that started showing rust after only a few range trips, so the Mec-Gar’s durability is a welcome improvement.
Breaking Down the Features of Mec-Gar USA Inc 1911 7 Rounds Officer Magazine
Specifications
The Mec-Gar USA Inc 1911 7 Rounds Officer Magazine is designed for compact, or “Officer’s” sized 1911 pistols. It holds 7 rounds of .45 ACP ammunition. The magazine body is constructed from carbon steel, heat-treated for strength and durability.
It features a higher tensile music wire spring for consistent feeding and a steel follower. The magazine also has a welded butt-plate for added strength. This magazine is also compatible with .40 S&W caliber 1911’s.
These specifications are important because they directly contribute to the magazine’s reliability and longevity. The steel construction and heat-treating ensure that the magazine can withstand repeated use without deforming or cracking. The high-quality spring is crucial for proper feeding, while the steel follower minimizes the risk of jams.
Performance & Functionality
The Mec-Gar USA Inc 1911 7 Rounds Officer Magazine performs its job exceptionally well. It feeds rounds smoothly and reliably, locks the slide back after the last round, and holds up well to repeated use. The magazine’s strengths lie in its consistent performance and robust construction.
One potential area for improvement could be the addition of witness holes to indicate the number of rounds remaining. However, this is a minor issue, and the magazine’s overall performance far outweighs this minor inconvenience. The Mec-Gar has exceeded my expectations in terms of reliability and durability.
Design & Ergonomics
The Mec-Gar USA Inc 1911 7 Rounds Officer Magazine features a simple, functional design. The magazine body is well-finished, and the welded baseplate is securely attached. The magazine is easy to load and insert into the pistol.
The steel construction gives it a solid, reassuring feel in the hand. There is no real learning curve associated with using this magazine; it’s a straightforward, user-friendly design.
Durability & Maintenance
The Mec-Gar USA Inc 1911 7 Rounds Officer Magazine is built to last. Its steel construction and heat-treated components make it highly resistant to wear and tear. With proper care and maintenance, this magazine should provide many years of reliable service.
Cleaning is simple; the magazine can be easily disassembled for thorough cleaning and lubrication. The robust design minimizes the need for repairs, but replacement springs and followers are available if needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Mec-Gar USA Inc 1911 7 Rounds Officer Magazine does not come with any accessories. However, it is compatible with most standard 1911 magazine pouches and carriers. There are no specific customization options for this particular magazine.
Pros and Cons of Mec-Gar USA Inc 1911 7 Rounds Officer Magazine
Pros
- Extremely reliable feeding: Consistent performance with various types of ammunition.
- Durable steel construction: Withstands heavy use without showing significant wear.
- Strong spring tension: Ensures proper feeding and slide lock.
- Easy to clean and maintain: Simple design for easy disassembly and cleaning.
- Affordable price: Great value for the quality and performance offered.
Cons
- Lacks witness holes: No easy way to visually confirm the number of rounds remaining.
- No specific customization options: Limited options for personalization.
Who Should Buy Mec-Gar USA Inc 1911 7 Rounds Officer Magazine?
The Mec-Gar USA Inc 1911 7 Rounds Officer Magazine is perfect for 1911 owners who prioritize reliability and durability. It’s an excellent choice for concealed carry, range use, and competition. Anyone who relies on their 1911 for self-defense or professional use will appreciate the consistent performance of this magazine.
Those seeking a magazine with a higher capacity or advanced features like round counters might want to consider other options. However, for a basic, dependable 7-round magazine, the Mec-Gar is hard to beat. A magazine pouch is a must-have accessory for anyone carrying extra magazines.
Conclusion on Mec-Gar USA Inc 1911 7 Rounds Officer Magazine
The Mec-Gar USA Inc 1911 7 Rounds Officer Magazine is a top-notch product that delivers on its promises. Its reliability, durability, and affordable price make it an excellent value for any 1911 owner. The price is absolutely justified.
I wholeheartedly recommend this magazine to anyone looking for a dependable option for their Officer’s model 1911. If you value reliability and performance, you won’t be disappointed with the Mec-Gar. Upgrade your 1911 today and experience the difference a quality magazine can make!